BirdLife Trogons Bird Club is a non-profit organisation (NPO-040-174), affiliated to BirdLife South Africa. Based on the South Coast of Kwazulu Natal, South Africa, our catchment area is between Scottburgh and Port Edward. Members are welcome from any part of the world. For more information see the 'About Us' or 'Contact Us' pages.

Sunday, 3 April 2011

Outing Report- Umzimkulu Valley 3rd April 2011

Nine members of Birdlife Trogons braved the elements for today's outing to the stunning Umzimkulu Valley, located behind Lake Eland, Oribi.
The low cloud and mist that greeted our arrival, at the Lake Eland gates, did not bode well for our journey into the Valley. Southern Crowned Crane could be heard calling, but remained out of sight. The group, having made it this far, was determined to continue with the excursion as planned and set off in a small convoy.

The slow meander downwards revealed much bird movement and calls rang from the bush and valleys below.
An unfamiliar francolin call was confirmed as Red-necked, by Sipho the resident bird guide at the hunting lodge, who Ian had conveniently picked up on the way.

With our descent complete, we put on our walking boots and commenced some serious birding.
Yellow-fronted Canary was everywhere, with each little movement seeming to be yet another. Other species soon started to make an appearance though, with the likes of Golden-breasted Bunting, Red-fronted Tinkerbird and Bar-throated Apalis showing well.
A flash of russet, in a nearby bush, soon had the hearts racing. 'Southern Tchagra' Andy called, much to Stan's delight. With a good view of this skulker, Stan had finally put his 'bogey bird' to bed.
A scan of the distant cliff faces confirmed previous speculation that Cape Vulture may be present, with about seven birds seen perched on a dropping stained ledge. Further scanning, however, proved difficult due to low cloud and rapidly deteriorating visibility. Unfortunately, a photograph was out of the question this time. Breakfast was not though, with this being the ideal moment to head for our picnic site and put the kettle on.

Suitably refreshed and with the cloudbase rising a metre or two, we ventured off on our second walk.
The weather being cool meant the birds were still active, offering us opportunities for more interesting revelations. We weren't disappointed, with a Red-backed Shrike making an unexpected appearance. This sighting was probably the last we'll see for this season as they usually start their migration during the first ten days of April.
White-browed Scrub-robin, African Firefinch, African Hoopoe, Purple-crested Turaco and Black Saw-wing were all seen on this walk, but sadly no Blue Waxbill.

With our braai consumed and precarious ascent out of the valley overcome, our pleasant and rewarding day was complete.